Turkish Cypriot leader praises Türkiye’s diplomatic leadership

Ersin Tatar, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), lauded Türkiye’s recent diplomatic efforts, emphasizing its leadership in addressing regional crises and humanitarian challenges. Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Lefkosa, Tatar highlighted Türkiye’s role as “the voice of conscience in this region.”

“Türkiye’s leadership in the face of wars, crises, and human tragedies fills us with pride,” Tatar remarked. He criticized the global system for turning a blind eye to human rights violations and the daily suffering of innocents, calling it a “sobering reality.”

Türkiye’s support for TRNC

Tatar underscored Türkiye’s unwavering support for the TRNC on various international platforms. “In an unjust global environment, we are fighting to establish the inherent rights of the Turkish Cypriot people and to confirm our sovereign and equal international status,” he said. “We are deeply grateful to Türkiye, our motherland, for standing by us and mobilizing all its resources to advance our state and secure its rightful status.”

He reiterated his rejection of a federation-based solution to the Cyprus issue, describing it as a failed model that had been imposed on Turkish Cypriots for decades. “We will not accept this exhausted status quo. We say, ‘No to the status quo,’” he declared.

Tatar pointed to the collapse of federation talks during the 2017 Crans-Montana negotiations and noted that even United Nations reports acknowledge the lack of common ground between the parties.

TRNC president stressed the importance of the Turkish military’s presence in Cyprus, which he described as the guarantor of peace for over five decades. He called the TRNC a key to stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean.

TRNC’s ascension to Organization of Turkic States

The president also highlighted the TRNC’s recent acceptance as an observer member of the Organization of Turkic States, calling it a significant milestone for the country. He extended his gratitude to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his efforts in making this achievement possible.

Tatar praised Türkiye’s ability to foster dialogue even among adversarial parties, stating, “Türkiye has shown the international system the importance of diplomacy over violence. Its role as a bridge-builder between opposing sides is a testament to its visionary leadership.”

On the ongoing negotiations with the Greek Cypriot administration regarding the opening of new crossing points, Tatar said discussions were continuing but offered no details. When asked about progress in the talks, he responded, “We will wait and see.”